Richard T. Smith

Dick graduated from Fargo South High School before attending the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in business. He continued his education at Creighton University School of Law, earning his law degree and beginning a long and distinguished career in the legal profession.

Dick began practicing law in private practice in Omaha, Nebraska, before moving to Beatrice, Nebraska. There, he served as city attorney, followed by assistant county attorney, and ultimately as Gage County Attorney, a position he held for 26 years. He later returned to private practice, where he worked for another 10 years before retiring in 2017.

While Dick was proud of his career, his greatest joy was his family. He met his wife, Theresa, while attending the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, and they were married on December 28, 1973. Together they raised three sons, Michael, Matthew, and Christopher. Dick treasured watching his children participate in sports and activities and was often involved himself, helping coach youth baseball and football.

An avid sports fan, Dick faithfully followed the Nebraska Cornhuskers, Green Bay Packers, and New York Yankees. He also enjoyed trap shooting, hunting, and boating. He appreciated time spent outdoors, time with family, and the simple pleasures of life.

Raised Roman Catholic, Dick was a member of St. Joseph’s Church in Beatrice, Nebraska, and later St. Patrick’s Church in Gretna, Nebraska. His faith was an important part of his life and reflected the values he held dear. Dick believed deeply in faith, family, honesty, and the importance of good, hard work. These principles guided him throughout his life and shaped the legacy he leaves with those who knew and loved him.

Dick is survived by his wife of 52 years, Theresa Smith; his sons, Michael (Tracy) Smith of Newburg, Oregon, Matthew (Laurie) Smith of Gretna, Nebraska, and Christopher (Megan) Smith of Gretna, Nebraska; and his seven grandchildren, Mateo, Flora, Aliza, Asher, Alexandra, Nova, and Layne Smith. He is also survived by his sisters, Kathleen (Thomas) Gash of Greenwood Village, Colorado, and Elizabeth (Mark) Zelinski of Marshfield, Wisconsin; as well as his nieces and nephews and his great-nieces and great-nephews, who will remember him with love and affection.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Dana and Georgia Smith; his in-laws, Herbert and Mary Jane Fitle; and brothers-in-law Herbert Fitle, Jr. and John Fitle.

Dick will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend. His faith, love of family, strong work ethic, honesty, and dedication to those around him will remain a lasting part of the lives of all who knew and loved him.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the American Diabetes Association or the American Heart Association.

Visitation Sunday 2:00 – 3:30 PM with Rosary 3:30 PM at Roeder Mortuary. Funeral Service 10:30 AM Monday (8/17/2026) at St. Patrick Catholic Church 508 Angus St. Gretna, NE, Interment Holy Sepulchre.

Roeder Mortuary 11710 Standing Stone - Gretna, NE - 402-332-0090 www.RoederMortuary.com